30/05/2025

B40 families receive assistance in free groceries initiative

FRIDAY MAY 30, 2025

RM1

More than 300 households provided with vegetables, milk powder, diapers, health products and meal packs.

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY Heal our work conditions, healthcare workers plead SCAN ME No. 8806 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Report on — page 6 Rife chatter on Cabinet rejig Report on — page 2 Shock resignations of Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad spark speculation on lineup in Putrajaya as well as future of PKR, with political experts saying situation unlikely to impact Madani administration. Report on — page 4 Currency exchange rate, cultural familiarity and Muslim compliant services among factors considered by visitors. Multiple advantages for Malaysia as medical tourism destination Report on — page 3 Frontliners urge govt to restore morale by implementing reforms to address neglect, burnout and emotional exhaustion. Multiple advantage

– BERNAMAPICS

FRIDAY | MAY 30, 2025

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MPs deny claims of withdrawing support for Anwar KUALA LUMPUR: Two PKR MPs have denied allegations that they, along with nine others, have withdrawn their support for party president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Vice-president Chang Lih Kang described the allegations as ridiculous. “Rafizi and Nik Nazmi’s resignation from the Cabinet is out of decorum and in the spirit of democracy. Others need not sully the waters. That’s all,”the Tanjung Malim MP posted on Facebook. Rumours have swirled following a screenshot on WhatsApp and a post by blogger Wan Muhammad Azri Wan Deris, also known as Papagomo, claiming that 11 MPs – Rafizi (Pandan), Nik Nazmi (Setiawangsa), Chang (Tanjung Malim), Tan Kar Hing (Gopeng), Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir (Johor Bahru), Wong Chen (Subang), Zahir Hassan (Wangsa Maju), Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh (Ledang), Lee Chean Chung (Petaling Jaya), Onn Abu Bakar (Batu Pahat) and Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun (Port Dickson) – have withdrawn support for Anwar and will hold a media conference today regarding the matter. Tan condemned the allegations on Facebook, describing them as malicious political slander. “I strongly deny the allegations made by Muhammad Azri. My stand and idealism in the struggle have not changed even with the recent party election results,” he wrote, adding that he has sought legal advice and has not ruled out taking action. – Bernama ‘Rafizi, Nik Nazmi withdrawal from Cabinet a principled stand’ KUALA LUMPUR: The decision by Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad to resign from the Cabinet is a principled move that must be respected, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He added that both Rafizi and Nik Nazmi had made effective contributions and supported all government decisions. “They are principled. That was their promise, to resign if they lost in the PKR election and we respect that stance. “Although we do not interfere in a party’s internal matters, on behalf of our colleagues in the Cabinet, I feel that they have made significant contributions and collectively supported all Cabinet decisions,” he said. Ahmad Zahid was speaking after attending the recording of the Desaku Mendunia concert and the pre-launch ceremony of the 3D Mega Carnival at Angkasapuri on Wednesday. He added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has the sole authority to appoint successors from PKR to fill the vacancies. “Leaders come and go, and so do ministers. The prime minister will select the best individuals from the party to serve in the Cabinet.” Earlier on Wednesday, Rafizi and Nik Nazmi announced their resignations from the Cabinet, effective June 17 and July 4 respectively, following their defeats in the PKR elections held last week. Rafizi failed to retain his position as deputy president after losing to Nurul Izzah Anwar, while Nik Nazmi lost in the contest for a vice-president post. The Prime Minister’s Office, in a statement on Wednesday, said Anwar had received letters from Rafizi and Nik Nazmi requesting leave and resignation from their Cabinet posts. It stated that Anwar had approved both leave applications and that any further decisions on their resignations would be announced later. – Bernama

‘Resignations signal shift in PKR, not threat to govt’ o Exit of ministers unlikely to destabilise administration amid speculation of Cabinet reshuffle, say analysts PEOPLE FAVOURITES ... Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi arriving for the Prime Minister’s Monthly Assembly at Puspanitapuri Dewan De Seri Endon in Putrajaya yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

“I believe the prime minister already has a plan to fix the situation, likely through a reshuffle before the Sabah state election.” He added that further resignations are unlikely to destabilise the party, describing the resignations as a result of democratic elections in which the grassroots had chosen their leaders. Universiti Sains Malaysia political analyst Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian viewed Rafizi’s resignation as a principled move in line with his campaign promise. “Rafizi’s decision is consistent with what he said during the campaign. He’s sticking to his word to avoid questions about his political integrity.” However, Sivamurugan added that others aligned with Rafizi might follow if the decision is part of a broader collective stand. He also said the moment could serve as a political reset. “I strongly believe there will be a reshuffle and this may be the right time for the prime minister to retain, drop or bring in new appointments to shape the Cabinet for the next general election. “This is democracy at work, a reflection of political rights and integrity. It could be a collective decision to show that the party matters more than personalities.” Rafizi and Nik Nazmi announced their resignations on Wednesday via social media following their defeats in the recent PKR internal elections. Rafizi’s resignation will take effect on June 17, while Nik Nazmi’s will be effective July 4. On Thursday, Anwar said a Cabinet reshuffle is not currently under consideration, adding that ministers cannot be replaced while they are on leave.

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

might step into a formal role following the resignations, but Mohammad Tawfik believes this is unlikely. “Her previous role as PKR vice-president already qualified her for a significant position, but she wasn’t appointed. “That shows caution on the part of both her and the party. If she were appointed now, it would send a negative signal and invite further accusations of nepotism,” he said. On the potential impact among young voters, who once viewed Rafizi and Nik Nazmi as key reform voices, Mohammad Tawfik acknowledged there may be some disappointment, although not a dramatic shift. “Their actions were bold but also irresponsible, especially when the country had just hosted the Asean Summit and was working to strengthen economic and political stability. “Still, youths today are more pragmatic and do not follow leaders blindly.” Universiti Teknologi Malaysia political analyst Assoc Prof Dr Mazlan Ali also downplayed the risk of instability, pointing to the unity government’s strong two-thirds majority in Parliament. He noted that Rafizi had already indicated he would resign if he lost the PKR deputy presidency, while Nik Nazmi’s decision appeared tied to his support for Rafizi and his own recent loss at the branch level.

PETALING unexpected resignations of Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli as Economy minister and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad as Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability minister – both prominent PKR reformists – have sparked speculation about a possible Cabinet reshuffle and the internal direction of the party. Political analysts maintain that while the move signals a shift in the leadership dynamics of PKR, it is unlikely to threaten the stability of the Madani government. Universiti Malaya political analyst Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub believes there is no immediate need for a reshuffle, suggesting instead that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim could use the situation to consolidate and streamline ministries. “The prime minister could merge the Economy Ministry into the Finance and International Trade and Industry Ministry portfolios, and the Natural Resources Ministry into the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry. “This move would not only address the current vacancies in these two ministries but also help reduce administrative costs and enhance government efficiency through consolidation,” he said. Speculation has also swirled over whether Anwar’s daughter Nurul Izzah JAYA: The

FRIDAY | MAY 30, 2025

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Medical personnel raise concerns over strained system

M’sia nears final lap in bid for

UN-Habitat presidency

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is in the final stage of its bid for the presidency of the United Nations Human Settlements (UN-Habitat) Assembly for the term 2025-2029. Leading the high-level delegation in Nairobi, Kenya, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said they held bilateral meetings on Wednesday at the UN-Habitat Headquarters with representatives from Mexico to strengthen support and exchange insights related to its candidacy. During a key meeting with Mexico’s Under-Secretary for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights Enrique Javier Ochoa Martinez, the delegation sought to learn from Mexico’s experience as the outgoing UN-Habitat Assembly President (2019–present). “Malaysia remains committed to continuing the momentum of excellent work and positive impacts achieved during the previous presidency. “We remain steadfast in strengthening multilateral partnerships through this platform for constructive dialogues and meaningful outcomes. “Malaysia’s engagement in Nairobi is a strategic step forward in advancing its vision for inclusive, sustainable and innovative urban development through leadership in the UN-Habitat platform,” Nga said in a Facebook post, adding that Malaysia is also set to have bilateral meetings with Azerbaijan, Iran and Brazil. Housing and Local Government Ministry secretary-general Datuk M. Noor Azman Taib and the Malaysian High Commissioner to Kenya Ruzaimi Mohamad were also part of the delegation. The UN-Habitat Assembly is the highest-level decision-making body on sustainable urbanisation and human settlements within the UN system. The presidency applies a rotation system among regional groups within the UN. The assembly convenes every four years. If Malaysia succeeds in its bid, it would be the first time in 15 years that a Malaysian has chaired a UN body since Tan Sri Hamidon Ali served as president of the UN Economic and Social Council in 2010. – Bernama

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA Ű MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Open letter to PM and health minister requests reforms for burnout relief, better staffing and real recognition beyond hashtags

with Africa’,” he added. Africa Day is celebrated by 19 missions in Malaysia which include Algeria, Egypt, Eswatini, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Libya, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is an annual commemoration of the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity formed on May 25 1963. It was later transformed into the African Union on July 9, 2002. The theme for this year is “The Year of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Repatriations”. – Bernama Another issue is the family reunification policy, particularly for civil servants posted in different states. Many couples have endured prolonged separations, with some marriages strained by long-distance arrangements. “They are not robots. They are also fathers, mothers, husbands and wives.” Ahmad Fadhzil also proposed flexible shifts and work-from home options for administrative, pharmacy and records staff, as not all roles are frontline critical. “The traditional 8am to 5pm work schedule is too rigid, which could operate more efficiently with flexible or staggered hours. “Lastly, we proposed that National Frontliners’ Day be meaningfully celebrated beyond posters and hashtags,” he said, suggesting that a special public holiday, awards and nationwide activities such as fun runs or appreciation events to truly honour the sacrifices of medical personnel. Ahmad Fadhzil said certain departments within the public healthcare system are in critical condition, with the most severely affected being emergency, medical and surgical units in major hospitals. He said in smaller hospitals, the situation is even more dire, as they are often operated by only a handful of doctors, while Klinik Kesihatan facilities are also overwhelmed, struggling to cope with a high volume of patients despite having too few medical officers. “Although medical staff have voiced such concerns over the years, little has changed. “Responses have often come in the form of powerless committees or prolonged delays, resulting in little or no progress. Symbolic gestures are no longer sufficient,” he said. Ahmad Fadhzil warned that without urgent reforms, Malaysia risks the collapse of its public healthcare system where doctors are overworked, underpaid and many are walking away, some permanently.

PETALING Healthcare frontliners are urgently calling on the government to implement changes to improve their working conditions, protect their mental well-being and rebuild lasting morale. After years of neglect, burnout and emotional exhaustion, they are demanding dignity, recognition and concrete action. In an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, hospital workers stressed that their demands are not for luxury but for respect and tangible improvements. They emphasised the urgent need for policies that address chronic staff shortages, overwhelming workloads and insufficient support systems that have pushed many healthcare professionals to the brink. Amanah Youth national health bureau chief Dr Ahmad Fadhzil JAYA:

Mohamad told theSun that medical staff, especially those in government hospitals and clinics, are experiencing burnout due to overwhelming workloads and systemic failings. “Among the causes are staff shortages, which leave too few personnel managing too many patients, low wages despite long and demanding hours, burdensome administrative paperwork and lack of clear pathways for career progression. “Meanwhile, as healthcare professionals are stretched to their limits, new policies are being introduced that unfairly affect private general practitioners, such as the proposals for the separating, prescribing and dispensing of medicines, and the increasing

influence of large pharmaceutical corporations.” Ahmad Fadhzil also pointed out the double standards in healthcare regulation, noting that unlicensed traditional healers and bomoh (shaman) continue to operate unchecked. He said one of the key demands is the establishment of a special frontliners’ commission to enable direct communication with policymakers. “The introduction of two automatic ‘mental health days’ annually for healthcare workers, without the need for medical certificates or justifications, is also crucial. Just those days to breathe. “Healthcare is not a luxury, it’s a basic right. We are not a threat. We are the backbone, but even backbones can break.”

Ahmad Fadhzil said healthcare workers, especially those in government hospitals and clinics, are experiencing burnout due to overwhelming workloads and systemic failings. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

‘Africa a rising hub of global growth and inspiration’ KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia sees Africa as a continent of the future, a strategic partner, and a rising hub of global growth and inspiration, Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin said. promote a more just and equitable international order. than 16,800 African students as of March this year. Under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme, the country has also successfully hosted 10,343 participants from Africa. indicating continued growth and strong potential to surpass last year’s total, he said.

“As Asean Chair this year, Malaysia recognises the vast potential for enhanced cooperation with Africa, not only bilaterally, but through interregional platforms. “As regional organisations with shared principles of peace, sustainable development and inclusivity, the potential of an Asean AU (African Union) future collaboration offers fertile ground for mutual growth and capacity building.” In the education sector, Mohamad said Malaysia’s higher learning institutions have welcomed more

Meanwhile, the Dean of African Heads of Mission who is also the High Commissioner of Namibia to Malaysia, Herman Pule Diamonds said Africa is the next growth frontier, boasting innovative financing solutions to strategic responses to international market volatility, as occasioned by the onset of the current tariff wars. “Africa’s continued momentum in its efforts at pioneering food security is there for everyone to see. As the saying goes: ‘Asean, you will never walk in solitude if you walk

This, coupled with the high number of African tourists visiting Malaysia – reportedly reaching 167,000 last year – reflects the vibrancy and deepening of people-to people connections, he added. Total bilateral trade between Malaysia and Africa grew steadily to reach US$14.41 billion last year. For the first quarter of this year trade has already reached US$2.19 billion,

Speaking at the reception of the 62nd Africa Day celebration on Wednesday, he said over the decades, Malaysia’s ties with African nations have steadily strengthened through trade, investment, education and cultural exchanges. He reaffirmed Malaysia’s solidarity with Africa in advancing constructive, inclusive and practical efforts to address historical legacies and

FRIDAY | MAY 30, 2025

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Malaysia has competitive edge in medical tourism: Expert

stimulates growth in ancillary sectors, such as hospitality, transportation and retail. “MHTC is targeting RM12 billion in healthcare travel revenue by 2030 through our integrated healthcare strategy, which combines modern medicine, traditional and complementary medicine, wellness and rejuvenation, and anti-ageing. “Integrated Healthcare will provide holistic care for patients and synergise the value chain within the industry. This drives exponential value growth, including revenue and profit to the private healthcare sector and government, and will set Malaysia at the crest of healthcare tourism in the world.” The council said the top medical disciplines sought by travellers in 2024 included gastroenterology, obstetrics and gynaecology, orthopaedic surgery, oncology, ear, nose and throat, and cardiology. “Malaysia’s top five health tourism markets are Indonesia, China, India, Singapore and the United Kingdom,”it said. – BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE Hospital referrals used as loophole to enter country PETALING JAYA: Amid the rapid growth of the health tourism industry, allegations have emerged of loopholes being exploited by individuals using medical referrals as a cover to sneak into the country. According to an industry source, these individuals would obtain referral letters from local hospitals to support their visa applications but once they enter Malaysia, they skip the medical treatment they initially claimed to require. “It does happen. Someone says they are coming to a certain hospital. They get their documents ready but they do not show up. They might not even seek any medical treatment at all once they enter our country,“ a medical expert with experience in the health tourism sector told theSun on condition of anonymity. “These days, people can manipulate the system. When rules are not being followed properly, that is when things start to fall apart.” The expert said this is not exclusive to medical tourism but happens across the board. “It ultimately comes down to good governance. Everyone involved has their own responsibilities. Perhaps we need to tighten the process in issuing visas for travellers.” He said proper evaluation must be done before a visa is issued and proper tracking mechanisms should be applied for every foreigner coming into the country. An Immigration Department source confirmed the issue but said it has been investigated by the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC). “We have not received information yet as the EAIC has not disclosed the outcome of their probe. However, this issue has indeed occurred,“ the source told theSun on condition of anonymity. – BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE

o Significant cost advantage of healthcare sector places nation as top destination of choice

She added that most of her products are sold to local suppliers and wholesalers, who act as agents to distribute her hand-painted batik clothing and fabrics. She said her journey and success as a batik art entrepreneur would not have been possible without the support of her family and the early encouragement of her late teacher Othman Buyong, the first person who believed in her talent and potential in the field. “I still remember, I was not good at drawing at all but my teacher was committed to teaching me proper techniques. After seeing one of my early works, he told me that I had talent that could be nurtured with the right guidance. That encouragement made me fall in love with the world of art.” Looking ahead to Visit Negeri Sembilan 2026, she expressed hope of collaborating with state Tourism, Arts and Culture Committee chairman Nicole Tan and the corporation’s state branch to introduce bunga lado -patterned batik to a wider international audience. – Bernama Asia’s medical tourism sector, Malaysia is catching up fast. “I believe that with the right strategy and government support, Malaysia could become a regional hub,” he said. “If we manage it more aggressively and strengthen our systems, we would be in an even better position. The government has a role to play in building the structure to support this growth.” He added that Malaysia should study what Thailand did to boost their health tourism industry further. Ishak emphasised that while health tourism is an economic opportunity, industry players must remain focused on care and compassion. “Yes, health tourism is a business but it cannot just be about profits. We are here to help people. That is what truly matters,” he said, adding that patients from as far as Somalia would travel to Malaysia despite the distance, simply because they feel safe and comfortable here. “Our facilities may not be world-class in every aspect but the trust and comfort we offer is what keeps them coming.” A health tourism expert, who wished to remain anonymous, said at least 80% of tourists that have sought medical treatment in Malaysia are from Indonesia. She added that the top five treatments that Indonesian patients seek in Malaysia are for heart-related conditions, cancer, orthopaedics, general health screenings and gastroenterology procedures. She said this was mainly due to the limited number of specialist doctors and medical facilities in

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Batik Negeri Sembilan, has become a pioneer in producing bunga lado (pepper flower)-patterned batik , a distinctive design representing the state and gaining popularity in the market. She said she had no prior drawing skills and began painting batik at home, with her breakthrough coming after receiving a grant from the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation. “The batik I produce is more contemporary and abstract, including the bunga lado pattern, which carries its own character and philosophy, distinct from the more traditional styles found in the East Coast. Each piece has its own story.” Operating her business in Senawang, Norhaslilee is also a supplier to batik entrepreneurs in the East Coast, Sabah and Sarawak. She said her product range includes batik shirts, blouses and her latest creation, the bunga lado batik tengkolok (traditional Malay head dress), with prices ranging between RM80 and RM800. PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is positioning itself as a competitive destination for medical tourism, with affordable health care costs, trusted professionals and a growing reputation for quality services, said Al-Islam Specialist Hospital director Dr Ishak Mas’ud. He added that the significant cost advantage of Malaysia’s healthcare sector compared with other countries, particularly neighbouring Singapore, is among the reasons individuals prefer Malaysia as the destination to seek treatment. “Let us take Singapore as an example. It is definitely more expensive there compared with here. Their currency is more than three times stronger. Anywhere you go, that is the basic reality. If we compare, Malaysia is not just a little, but significantly cheaper.” He said Malaysia’s openness, cultural familiarity and availability of halal -compliant services make it a preferred destination for Muslim medical tourists, especially from the Middle East. He also said while countries such as Thailand are leading in Southeast

Ishak said while health tourism is an economic opportunity, industry players must remain focused on care and compassion. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian health tourism industry recorded a new high in 2024, with revenue reaching RM2.72 billion, surpassing its target for the year by 9%, said the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC). It said the industry achieved a record volume after serving over 1.6 million foreign patients in private healthcare facilities nationwide last year, an 18% year-on-year increase. MHTC is an agency under the Health Ministry entrusted with positioning and promoting Malaysia as a healthcare travel destination. It said it has 82 healthcare providers registered under its membership programme, including 58 private hospitals, 20 ambulatory care centres and four dental clinics. “This programme comprises elite members and ordinary members, each reflecting a commitment to world-class standards and patient trust. All members undergo a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a committee of experts in healthcare and regulatory compliance. Indonesia to meet the high demand for such treatments. “However, the types of treatments sought by patients from different countries vary. This is largely influenced by the cost of treatment in their home countries and the waiting time required to see specialist doctors there. “Chinese travellers would come here just because it is faster for them to get in-vitro fertilisation treatment in Malaysia despite more advanced facilities available in their country.” She emphasised that one of the

“Our elite members represent the most prestigious private healthcare institutions in the country. These hospitals are internationally recognised and hold accreditations from respected global bodies, such as the Joint Commission International, Malaysian Society for Quality in Health, Australian Council on Healthcare Standards, Temos International and the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee. “These institutions demonstrate world-class clinical excellence, patient safety and healthcare delivery. “Our ordinary members are selected through a stringent evaluation process by a selection committee comprising government and private sector representatives. These hospitals uphold Malaysia’s high standards of medical care and quality service, and hold at least one international or national accreditation.” The council highlighted the impact that health tourism has on the country’s economy as it not only drives revenue, but also creates employment opportunities and main reasons behind Malaysia’s strong performance in the health tourism industry is the regulation of service prices at private healthcare facilities by the Health Ministry. “The implementation of ceiling prices for treatments in Malaysia is a major factor attracting patients, as such pricing regulations are not commonly found in other countries.” Dubai-based firm Nomad Capitalist has also ranked Malaysia as its top destination for medical tourism, behind countries such as Singapore, India and Turkiye.

Industry revenue soars to new record of RM2.7 billion in 2024

Woman pioneers bunga lado batik SEREMBAN: Norhaslilee Ibrahim, 48, owner of d’NIYY Arts

FRIDAY | MAY 30, 2025

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Two syndicates busted, RM7 million drugs seized

Directors charged with unlawful waste disposal SEREMBAN: Two company directors were charged in the Sessions Court here yesterday with illegal disposal of scheduled waste in Port Dickson last year. S. Sivanathiran, 62, and Chan Kwai Soon, 47, of Nature Energy Products Sdn Bhd, pleaded not guilty before judge Mohamad Kamil Nizam. They are charged with breaching the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Waste) Regulations 2005 by disposing of scheduled waste without first obtaining approval from the Environment Department director-general. The offence was allegedly committed at Lot 11224, Mukim Jimah in Port Dickson at 4.30pm on Oct 14. The charge, framed under Section 34B(1)(a) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974, is punishable under Section 34B (4) of the same law, which provides up to five years’ jail and a maximum fine of RM10 million upon conviction, Bernama reported. The court granted bail at RM9,000 in one surety each and ordered them to report to the Negeri Sembilan department every month. RM2m illegal cigarettes netted IPOH: The 2nd Battalion General Operations Force (GOF) in Kulim, Kedah has seized 6,100 cartons of illicit cigarettes worth more than RM2 million. Ulu Kinta GOF Northern Brigade Commander SAC Shahrum Hashim said the enforcement operation was carried out at Km139.9 of the North-South Expressway northbound. “A probe found that the supply was brought from the south of the country to be distributed to the northern state market. The 2nd Battalion GOF Intelligence Branch has traced the movement of activities used to bring in the cigarette load before distributing them to traders in the past month.” He said the case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967 and is punishable under Section 135 (1)(v)(aa) of the same Act. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: A man was arrested for attempting to snatch a woman’s necklace in Jalan Maxwell, Rawang on Sunday. Gombak district police chief ACP Noor Ariffin Mohamad Nasir said the suspect and an accomplice, who is still at large, attempted to snatch the necklace from a woman in her 40s as she was getting into her vehicle after shopping in the 5.25pm incident. “The suspect was apprehended by the woman’s husband with the help of bystanders. His accomplice managed to flee from the scene on a motorcycle. The victim sustained injuries to her chest and knee.” He said the case is being investigated under Section 394 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt during a robbery. Anyone with information is urged to contact investigating officer Insp Muhammad Hakimir Razally at 011-3335 2585. – Bernama Snatch theft suspect nabbed

believed to be a couple, have been remanded until June 3. “A search of the vehicle uncovered two packets weighing 2kg and containing compressed dried leaves, believed to be ganja , estimated to be worth RM6,423.20. “The drugs seized in this case are believed to have been intended for distribution in the Gombak area. Also seized was RM500 in cash.” He said the suspects have no criminal records and tested negative for drugs, Bernama reported. The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

believed to have been intended for distribution in the Klang Valley. “Action was taken under the Dangerous Drugs (Forfeiture of Property) Act 1988, with the seizure of a gold chain worth RM11,348.86,” he said during a press conference at the Gombak district police headquarters yesterday. In the second case, Noor Ariffin said police arrested a 34-year-old foreign man, believed to be a private college student, and a 47-year-old local woman, believed to be working as an insurance executive for a private company, in a car at around 6am last Tuesday. He added that the suspects,

o Three suspects arrested, more than 200kg syabu and ganja confiscated

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have crippled two drug syndicates in separate raids in Gombak following the arrest of a local man and woman, as well as a foreign man, with drug seizures amounting to RM7.12 million. Gombak police chief ACP Noor Ariffin Mohamad Nasir said the Gombak district police

plastic packets weighing 222.33kg, believed to contain syabu , from a car that had been left at a storage facility at 9.30pm on May 14. He said further investigation led to the arrest of a 25-year-old local man, who works as a used car salesman, Bernama reported. The man has been remanded for 12 days until today.

headquarters Narcotics Crime Investigation Division seized 212 Vehicle plunges into ravine, man and daughter killed “The drugs seized in the first case are valued at RM7,114,592 and

SEGAMAT: A father and his nine-year-old daughter were killed on Wednesday when the four-wheel drive vehicle they were travelling in with four other family members skidded and plunged into a ravine in Kampung Kwongsai, along Jalan Segamat-Labis. Bandar Baru Segamat Fire and Rescue Station Operations Commander Senior Fire Officer II Zainal Abidin Che Deraman identified the deceased as Mohd Fitri Md Said, 39, and Nurin Insyirah Mohd Fitri. The others were injured, namely Mohd Fitri’s wife Nurain Farhana Johari, 32, and their children Muhammad Zikri, 11, Nur Hisna, four and Nur Atiya, two. Zainal said the station received an emergency call about the incident at 6.47pm. “Following the alert, a Fire Rescue Tender with seven personnel was despatched to the scene, which is located about 9km from the station,” he said in a statement yesterday. He said the team discovered the vehicle that had plunged into the ravine, with two victims trapped beneath the vehicle. “The team used special equipment, including a hydraulic ramp, to stabilise the vehicle and extricate the victims,” he said. The injured victims managed to free themselves from the wreckage and were sent to a GEORGE TOWN: The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry will increase the number of community rangers to 3,000 this year under the Biodiversity Protection and Patrolling Programme (BP3) to curb illegal activities involving wildlife and forests. Its secretary-general Datuk Dr Ching Thoo said the new appointments, comprising mainly members of the Orang Asli community as well as Armed Forces veterans and police, aim to strengthen protection efforts against encroachment in permanent forest reserves nationwide.

“We received an emergency call at 8.15pm and despatched nine firefighters along with one fire engine to the scene,” the statement read. It said the incident involved a four-wheel drive vehicle, adding that the bodies were handed over to police for further action. – Bernama

plunged at Kampung Moyog, Penampang on Wednesday. The Fire and Rescue Department Sabah Operations Centre in a statement said the two, aged 40 and 49, were pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel. into a ravine

hospital for treatment while the bodies were handed over to police for further action. In a separate incident in Kota Kinabalu, two people were killed and another injured after the vehicle they were in lost control and

A team of firefighters attaching tethers to the vehicle to pull it out of the ravine in Kampung Kwongsai. – PIC COURTESY OF FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT

Ministry to increase community rangers to protect forests, wildlife

“The was introduced last year to assist victims facing significant losses due to human-wildlife conflicts. The initiative will continue this year with an additional RM1.5 million,” he said, He added that the ministry is reviewing a proposal to increase the compensation payout rate from 50% to 60% of the reported damages to better support affected individuals. “Based on records, most of these claims involve elephant-related damages, especially in Johor, Kelantan and Pahang. There are also reports involving monkeys, though to a lesser extent.” compensation

Sultan Mizan Antarctic Research Foundation and Environment Department, drew over 250 participants, including university vice-chancellor Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamed and department director-general Datuk Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar. Ching urged residents affected by wildlife disturbances that damage property or crops to apply for the Property and Crop Damage Compensation. He said RM10 million was allocated for the programme last year but only 10% was disbursed due to the low number of applications.

“With million allocation received this year, we plan to appoint up to 3,000 community rangers. The impact has been positive, with reports indicating a clear reduction in illegal activities, especially poaching.” He was speaking after launching the Jelajah Kelestarian Alam 2.0 programme at Universiti Sains Malaysia yesterday, Bernama reported. “BP3 enables us to monitor forests more effectively and address threats, such as encroachment, illegal logging and poaching.” The programme, jointly organised by the ministry, the RM80

FRIDAY | MAY 30, 2025

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Ethnic communities honoured with new signboards GEORGE TOWN: To relive and preserve the historical heritage of the Kadayanallur and Tenkasi ethnic communities in Penang, signboards have been placed at original locations where the community has existed since the 1800s. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the signboards, which also display historical information about the communities, have been installed at seven sites – Hidayatul Islam Association, Nurul Islam Association, Kadayanallur Muslim Association, Anjuman Himayatul Islam, Prangin Mosque, United Muslim Association and Hutton Lane. He added that the initiative, a collaboration between the state government and the Penang Island City Council, would help the communities preserve their cultural heritage and aesthetic values in the state. “These communities, from a very difficult beginning, have strived for 200 to 300 years in this homeland. And now we see their success, with many contributing not only in Penang but also across Malaysia, thanks to the efforts of their associations. “Therefore, I believe the effort to elevate this ethnic group to a higher level should be commended,” he said during the launch of the signboards recently. Chow also said the state government is requesting the Penang Island City Council to consider naming a street in George Town as Jalan Kadayanallur Tenkasi, to honour the communities. He added that the council had agreed in principle to the proposal mooted by the Central Muslim Society (CMS). He pointed out that the Jalan Prangin Mosque is linked to the communities, which now plan to expand the mosque by constructing a two-storey building behind it, rebranding the premises as the Kadayanallur Tenkasi Mosque. “I hope this will be given due consideration,” he added. Meanwhile, CMS president Mohamed Hasan said the organisation – a coalition of NGOs comprising descendants from the communities – hopes the signboards would ensure the history of the communities is not lost and is known to locals and tourists in George Town. He said CMS remains committed to upholding the legacy of the communities, which forms part of the Indian Muslim enclave in Penang, and hopes their heritage would continue to be introduced to the public. “This will help preserve heritage buildings and areas within and outside the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site, contributing to Penang’s tourism sector.” – Bernama

B40 families receive aid via free groceries initiative

Ű BY T. C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o More than 300 households in Penang and neighbouring states assisted since January by efforts of association and charity clinic

cover medical bills.

Additionally, PHA supports underprivileged students by providing laptops and partially covering academic fees. More than 50 students have benefitted through the programme. “None of this would be possible without the compassion and generosity of our donors,” Murugiah said. Established in 2012, PHA is a non-profit organisation committed to the welfare of underprivileged communities in Penang and neighbouring states. Over the years, it has been involved in community service initiatives, including funeral rites and cremation for unclaimed bodies from hospitals and care homes, providing vegetarian meals for senior citizens and assisting students in need. KDS, a charitable medical clinic founded in 1982 as a welfare wing of the Temple of Fine Arts, provides free medical care to the public, with a focus on serving the underprivileged. It has expanded its services to include a mobile medical unit for rural outreach and currently also offers free legal services to those in need. This grassroots effort, now in its 27th year, continues to provide a safety net for many urban poor families. According to a study by Unicef Malaysia in August 2024 involving 433 low-income households in Penang, 27.9% of respondents said they had to cut down on food due to financial constraints. For more information or to contribute, contact Murugiah at 016-444 9246.

GEORGE TOWN: Since January, over 300 low-income and hardcore poor families across Penang and neighbouring regions have received grocery aid through the Penang Hindu Association (PHA) and Klinik Derma Sivasanta (KDS). On Wednesday, an aid distribution event was held at KDS in River Road, involving 60 families. Another 10 families who could not attend due to medical or caregiving responsibilities had the aid delivered to their homes. Since early this year, the two organisations have distributed grocery packages worth RM180 each to families in Penang Island, Butterworth, Prai, Sungai Bakap, Nibong Tebal, Simpang Ampat, Kulim and Ipoh.

and even to pay for transport to school ,” he told theSun . Murugiah, who also coordinates operations at KDS, urged the government to carry out a comprehensive study on the current poverty situation. However, he pointed out that such conditions may not be fully visible through official statistics alone. Beyond food aid, the two entities have also extended support to bedridden individuals and those suffering from conditions such as cancer, stroke and kidney failure, by providing partial financial assistance to

Each aid package includes more than 35 essential grocery items, vegetables, milk powder for children and senior citizens, diapers, health products, face masks and a vegetarian meal. The initiative is sustained entirely through public donations and support from several NGOs. PHA president Datuk P. Murugiah said the charity efforts were in response to the rising cost of living, inflation and concerns over job losses. “Some families have had to borrow money just to buy food, medicine, milk for their children

Murugiah presenting aid packages to representatives of recipient households. – TC KHOR/THESUN

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Malaysian Paper

FRIDAY | MAY 30, 2025

7

Hanoi bans Economist print issue HANOI: The Economist’s latest printed edition for Asia featuring Vietnam’s top leader To Lam on its cover has been banned in Vietnam, sources at two local media distributors told Reuters, in a new instance of censorship in the Communist-run country. o Telegram also blocked a request for comment outside UK business hours. Vietnam routinely prohibits books, movies and other cultural works and multiple media outlets are also banned. “We were given orders to tear off the cover and the article about him (Lam), making the magazine no longer sellable. US tariff trade tensions that may undermine its export-oriented growth. The Economist’s article described Lam as an ambitious leader who emerged “from the security state” and who “must turn himself into a reformer” to adjust the country’s economic model and make it richer.

Philippines exerts right to ‘lawful’ activities MANILA: The Philippine Foreign Ministry said yesterday that China has no right to object to or interfere with its lawful and routine activities in the South China Sea. The ministry said it also “rejects and refutes” recent statements of the Chinese embassy in Manila that Beijing has indisputable sovereignty over the Spratly islands. The Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan and China between them have claims and a presence on dozens of features in the Spratly archipelago, ranging from reefs and rocks to islands, natural and artificial. China’s manmade islands there include runways, radar towers, ports and missile systems. “We urge China to respect the Philippines’ sovereignty and jurisdiction, even as we continue to pursue peaceful and legal means to manage differences and the situation at sea,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Teresita Daza in a statement. China and the Philippines traded accusations last week following a confrontation between two of their vessels in contested waters of the South China Sea, the latest incident in a long-running row in the strategic waterway. The Philippines’ fisheries bureau said the lives of a civilian crew were put at risk when the Chinese coast guard fired water cannons and sideswiped a vessel as it conducted marine research around a disputed reef. The Chinese coast guard said two Philippine vessels had illegally entered waters near Subi Reef, a Chinese-built artificial island and organised personnel to land on the unoccupied sandbars of Sandy Cay. “The Philippines is clearly within its rights to conduct routine maritime operations and scientific research in and around these features, and will continue to do so,” Daza said. “China has no right to object much less interfere with these lawful and routine activities.” China claims sovereignty over nearly all the South China Sea, including parts of the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. An international arbitral tribunal in 2016 said Beijing’s expansive claim has no basis under international law. The Chinese embassy in its statement sent to media on Monday said the Philippines had since January made 27 “unauthorised landings” on features, despite a 2002 agreement among Southeast Asian countries and China to refrain from doing so. – Reuters Many users of the app in the country could not access it this week. Telegram did not reply to a request for comment about the enforcement of the ban. It had earlier said it was “surprised” by the measure, noting it was responding to newly introduced requirements. – Reuters Lam as a hard man “undermine the serious political and social developments currently taking place in Vietnam”. The country is ranked 173th out of 180 surveyed nations in the latest press freedom index published by Reporters Without Borders, a non-profit organisation. Authorities in the one-party nation often detain people for “anti-state” online comments and maintain a strict control on the press and social media. Last week Vietnam’s Technology Ministry ordered the ban of messaging app Telegram over alleged crimes committed by its users, noting in an internal document the platform hosted groups created by “opposition and reactionary subjects”.

Lam, 67, rose from the powerful Ministry of Public Security, which he had led for years, to reach the top of Vietnam’s political hierarchy last year after a months-long power struggle, first becoming president and then head of the communist party, the country’s top job. The Economist’s cover and articles were reposted thousands of times on social media by users in Vietnam with mixed reactions. “Vietnam is stepping confidently into a new era of growth and the world is taking notice,” said Yumi Thao Nguyen, a sales manager, on LinkedIn with a link to The Economist. Le Thi Kim Ngoc, a self-described “Citizen of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam”, said on Facebook The Economist’s characterisation of

Later, we were ordered not to sell it at all,” said an executive at distributor Ngay Moi, declining to be named because she was not allowed to speak to media. An employee at a second distributor, Global Book Corporation, said Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Information banned the distribution of that particular issue, without elaborating on the motivations. A third source at distributor Xunhasaba said it did not have that issue because it had not received enough orders. Vietnam, a Southeast Asian industrial hub, faces a pivotal moment as it seeks to consolidate a prolonged economic boom amid

The May 24 issue, which is still available in the country in its electronic version, portrays Lam with two stars on his eyes on a red backdrop, in a reference to the country’s national flag, with the title: “The man with a plan for Vietnam”. The subheading on its main Vietnam story said: “A Communist Party hard man has to rescue Asia’s great success story”. Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Public Information did not reply to requests for comment on the reported banning. The Economist did not immediately reply to

Regional meth seizures at record high BANGKOK: Seizures of methamphetamine in East and Southeast Asia were at record highs last year, a UN agency said, with a “combination of conflict and stability” in Myanmar driving illicit drug production.

Seizures of methamphetamine across the region totalled 236 tonnes last year, marking an “exponential” increase of 24% compared to 2023, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said in a statement citing a new report. The number represents “only the amount seized, and just so much methamphetamine is actually reaching the market”, said Benedikt Hofmann, UNODC acting representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific region. The largest quantities of methamphetamine seized in the region were recorded in Thailand, the biggest destination and transit hub for the synthetic drug. In Myanmar, a “degree of stability” in areas of the country known for large-scale synthetic drug production combined with a crisis following a 2021 military coup had driven the “unprecedented” growth, Hofmann said. The spread of ketamine production sites to most of the lower Mekong countries showed the agility of transnational drug trafficking groups in evading law enforcement, UNODC said in the statement. “The trafficking route connecting Cambodia

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra poses in Bangkok with seized methamphetamine at a press event yesterday highlighting the Thai government’s anti-drug trafficking efforts. – AFPPIC

with Myanmar, primarily through Laos, has been rapidly expanding,” said Inshik Sim, lead analyst at the UNODC regional office, adding

that maritime routes linking Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines had become another significant trafficking corridor. – AFP

East Timor deports Filipino murder suspect MANILA: East Timor deported an Interpol wanted Filipino murder suspect yesterday whose case the government has linked to its aspirations to join Asean, after more than two years of political wrangling. Nicolau Lobato International Airport. Teves was detained at a driving range in the capital Dili last year, but a Timorese court blocked his extradition.

“The government hereby informs that Arnolfo Teves Jr will be deported from Timor Leste,” it said in a statement, using the country’s alternate name. It added that East Timor’s “imminent full accession” to Asean had reinforced its responsibility to collaborate regionally on legal matters. The Philippines’ Department of Justice said yesterday it was preparing a team to facilitate Teves’ repatriation based on deportation documents from East Timor. – AFP Thailand’s military said on Wednesday that its soldiers fired in response to gunshots from Cambodia’s border force, leading to an exchange lasting around 10 minutes before the Thai side said the Cambodians requested a ceasefire. Cambodian Royal Army spokesman Mao Phalla said Thai soldiers had attacked Cambodian troops who were on border patrol duty in northern Preah Vihear province. – AFP

The Philippines justice secretary suggested the decision may have been bought, saying it was “obvious that some people are making money out of this”. In an abrupt turnaround, East Timor announced Teves’ impending deportation late on Wednesday, saying his continued presence represented a security risk.

Former Philippines congressman Arnolfo Teves allegedly masterminded a March 2023 attack that killed then-provincial governor Roel Degamo and nine others. AFP journalists saw him boarding a turboprop plane with Philippine Air Force markings that then took off from Presidente

Thai, Cambodian army chiefs meet over border clash BANGKOK: The military chiefs of Thailand and Cambodia met yesterday, both governments said, after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a border clash. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn wrote on Facebook that he hoped the meeting between the two army commanders “will yield positive results”. Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said there had been a “misunderstanding by both sides”.

Shinawatra told reporters that “both sides should remain calm and discuss to see what we can agree”, and called for peaceful discussion. Her Cambodian counterpart Hun Manet

A Cambodian soldier was killed on Wednesday during an exchange of gunfire with the Thai army at the border, a Cambodian army spokesman said.